This session welcomes participants by the co- hosts, informs participants about the concept behind Origin Africa, raising awareness about Africa as a sourcing destination for the supply of cotton, textile products, fabrics and clothing, as well as a special welcome from the Government of Mauritius

In this session we will look at new products, cotton fabric and fiber technology developments, innovations in application & design, and future trends. Followed by questions and answers

Speakers

Marsha Powell, Cotton Inc., & Cotton Intl., USA

Ronald Hughes, Glodina, South Africa

Eddy Yeung, Fernery Spinning Mills, Mauritius

Dr. Jaquelene Robeck, College of the Arts, University of Louisiana, USA

13:00 – 14:15

Lunch break – Senso Restaurant

14:15 – 15:30

SESSION 3Integrating Design & Marketing - Hibiscus Ballroom (the audience of this session will include students from the University of Mauritius and other Colleges)

This session will feature presentations on the US market for apparel and home décor, and will include discussion on the different retail channels, brands, categories of products exported. It will include useful strategies to tailor products to buyers and markets, and how African exporters can gain a market edge by including design in their offers.

Speakers

Marsha Powell, Cotton Inc & Cotton Council Int., USA

Chad Schofield, Three Global, USA

Mazava Ltd, Mauritius

Dr. Karen Steen, Cazenovia College, NY, USA

Moderator

JC Mazingue, USAID COMPETE

15:30 – 16:00

Coffee break – Beachside, Hibiscus Ballroom

16:00 – 17:00

SESSION 4The Fiber Market: Where is it going & What is the Future - Hibiscus Ballroom

A reality check on the structure of the world cotton trade, current price volatility and uncertainty, and the importance of cotton in the market going forward

This beach located event will showcase graphic designs from across Africa that can be applied to textile fabrics, with a cotton emphasis. This unique event will showcase designs emerging from slums & city streets, to studios, and will capture the innovative and creative talent of Africa.Dress: Casual

An Interactive session on what the global and regional market is looking for, what are the key aspects needed for doing business with Africa, and what the "Friends of Africa" initiative is doing to increase trade opportunities with Africa, and to change perceptions. Followed by questions and answers

Located at the historic Balaclava Fort Ruins, this dinner event will showcase the talents of 14 designers from across Africa, featuring countries in Eastern and Southern Africa, the Indian Ocean Islands, West Africa and Egypt. Designs will be created with commercial appeal and African flair, using cotton and other raw materials & accessories sourced from the continent. It will also introduce the promising design talent of 3 student designers from Mauritius